AIFF confirms India’s friendlies against Brazil, ASEAN Cup participation; Bibiano Fernandes named U-15 coach

The AIFF Executive Committee has confirmed India's participation in the Brazil international friendly and the FIFA ASEAN Cup, approved Bibiano Fernandes as India Under-15 coach, retained the existing Santosh Trophy format and cleared the federation's 2026-27 budget.

Hyderabad: The All India Football Federation’s Executive Committee which met in Delhi with the President Kalyan Chaubey chairing it, confirmed India’s participation in both — the men’s international friendly against five-time FIFA World champions Brazil, scheduled to be played in Kolkata on October 3, 2026, and the FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia from September 24 to October 3, 2026.

The Executive Committee was also attended by Treasurer Mr Kipa Ajay, Deputy Secretary General Mr M Satyanarayan, along with members Mr Lalnghinglova Hmar, Mr Menla Ethenpa, Mr Mohan Lal, Mr Neibou Sekhose, Mr Syed Husnain Naqvi, Mr Syed Imtiaz Hussain, Mr Deepak Sharma, Ms Valanka Alemao, Mr Vijay Bali, Ms Thongam Tababi Devi, Mr Shabbir Ali, Mr Bhaichung Bhutia, and Mr Climax Lawrence.

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The AIFF recognised the match against Brazil, to be played during the FIFA International Match Window, as a unique opportunity to provide Indian players with invaluable exposure against one of the world’s strongest footballing nations.
Accordingly, the AIFF will formally notify FIFA that India will participate in both competitions by fielding separate squads for the match against Brazil and the FIFA ASEAN Cup.
The Executive Committee also reviewed preparations for the Indian Super League 2026-27 season following the adoption of the new club-led commercial model. Members were updated on the progress made by the participating clubs and the Federation in operational planning for the season. The AIFF will allow additional time to Jamshedpur FC to reconsider its decision, with an extended deadline until August 12, 2026.

On the recommendation of the AIFF Technical Committee, the Executive Committee approved the appointment of Bibiano Fernandes as the head coach of the India U15 men’s national team, subject to his acceptance, for the inaugural edition of the FIFA Under-15 World Cup & Festival, scheduled for October in Azerbaijan. Ranjit Bajaj was approved as the team manager. As per the regulations of the tournament, 20 members — six staff and 14 players — can be part of the team’s contingent.

3-tier format for Santosh Trophy rejected

The Competition Committee’s proposal for a revamped three-tier format for the Santosh Trophy and the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy was not approved by the Executive Committee, citing concerns over competitive opportunities and player development.

The Competitions Committee has been requested to revisit the proposed format and submit a revised proposal for consideration by the Executive Committee for implementation in future seasons. Accordingly, no changes will be made to the format of the Santosh Trophy and the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy for the 2026-27 season.

The Executive Committee also approved AIFF’s budget for 2026-27 (June 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027).